a guide for parents
Newborn sibling photography
Chester-le-Street, County Durham
01 / Why they matter
Why newborn sibling photos are so special
Sibling photographs are often some of the most meaningful images from a newborn session. Seeing a new baby with their big brother or sister tells a story that families return to again and again.
As a newborn photographer based in Chester-le-Street, Durham, I photograph siblings regularly. Whether your older child is calm and cuddly or full of energy, this guide explains how newborn sibling photos are created in a way that feels relaxed, safe and natural for everyone, what works well, how to prepare older children and what to expect on the day.
A newborn sibling photo captures more than how your children look. It records the beginning of their relationship: the curiosity, the gentleness, and sometimes the uncertainty that comes with meeting a new baby for the first time.
Parents often worry about how their toddler or older child will behave. In reality, sibling photographs don’t rely on perfect behaviour or forced smiles. The best images come from calm moments, simple setups and letting children interact in their own way.
02 / Before you come
Preparing your child for the photoshoot
When a new baby arrives, older siblings are adjusting just as much as parents are, so sibling photos work best when children feel included rather than managed.
Before your session, it helps to talk to your child about visiting the studio and meeting someone new who will take photographs. There’s no need to rehearse poses or expectations. Keeping things relaxed makes a big difference.
When you arrive at Infinity Photographic Studios, I always speak to older siblings first. You may see me sitting on the floor chatting to your eldest, which helps me make myself small and approachable. The session starts with them feeling comfortable in the space, rather than the focus immediately being on the baby, and children who feel secure and involved make for better sibling photographs.
Idea 01
Lying together on a flokati rug
Every newborn sibling session is different, but a few simple setups work well with children of all ages. One of the most popular in the studio is siblings lying safely together on a soft flokati rug, which suits toddlers and younger children because they can stay close to the baby without feeling restricted.
The baby is positioned securely and comfortably, with parents close by at all times, and siblings lie next to their new brother or sister. This often brings gentle touches, quiet moments and natural expressions. Because children are already lying down, there’s less sudden movement and the focus stays on connection rather than posing. These photos feel intimate and calm, and they’re a favourite with families.
Idea 02
A parent holding the baby
For younger toddlers or very energetic siblings, a parent holding the baby can be ideal. Your child stands or sits close, often giving a gentle kiss on the baby’s head or resting a hand softly on them.
This keeps everyone safe and relaxed while still capturing closeness and connection, especially when siblings aren’t ready to sit or lie still.
Natural moments
Not every sibling photograph needs to look at the camera. Some of the most meaningful images come from siblings talking to their baby, watching quietly or interacting in their own way, so they feel authentic and timeless rather than staged.
Swipe for more
calm and unhurried
Safe, relaxed, never forced
01
Safety first
Babies are never left unsupported and parents stay close whenever siblings are involved. If a setup doesn’t feel right for your child on the day, we adapt it or skip it.
02
If they won’t cooperate
That’s completely normal, and sessions are planned with it in mind. Children are never forced into positions. Some join in straight away and others take time to warm up. Choice, breaks and a calm pace work far better than trying to control the session, which flows around your children, not the other way around.
03
Portraits for everyone
Individual portraits help older children feel special in their own right, and a few family photographs complete the story of this stage in your lives.
03 / Before baby arrives
Maternity photos with a sibling
For some families, sibling photographs begin before the baby arrives. Maternity photos with a sibling gently include older children in the journey and help them feel part of what is happening.
These sessions are very relaxed, with simple moments such as holding hands, resting their head against the bump or talking quietly. They also help children feel at home when they return to the studio for their newborn sibling session, giving a sense of continuity between the two.
Kind words from our clients
“My older daughter suffers from anxiety. Alan managed to get some AMAZING photos of her and really knew how to make sure she was calm and comfortable, working with her, not pushing her.”
Demi, newborn and sibling session
“My youngest takes a while to warm to people. Alan gave him time and started talking to him about things he liked to bring him out of his shell.”
Danielle, mum of two
“My eldest loves them and told everyone about her photoshoot. It’s a comfortable environment and is very friendly and approachable.”
Demi, newborn and sibling session
bring the whole family
Book your newborn session
If you’re expecting and would like a calm newborn sibling session, book while you’re still pregnant so your due date can be noted in the diary.
Infinity Photographic Studios is in Chester-le-Street, Durham, and welcomes families from across the North East. Have questions about including siblings? Just ask.
0191 340 7273
info@infinity-studios.co.uk
Ground Floor Offices, Turn Park Head, Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY